Family Fun Day Supports Special Friends Cafe

HARWICH – Saturday was a day of fun and games for families in Brooks Park.

Family Fun Day was also an opportunity to raise funds, awareness, and acceptance, for the Special Friends Cafe, while also fostering understanding about the abilities and contributions of people with disabilities.

The proposed Special Friends Cafe will create employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and physical disabilities in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Saturday’s event raised $6,000, according to Shana Grogan, a coordinator of the project.

“The Special Friends Café Family Fun Day was a huge success,” she said. “Pauline (Linnell) and I would like to send a huge thank you to everybody who came and supported our mission, either in person or reaching out. It was amazing to watch and see all the happy faces on the kids and their families. From dancing in tutus to dunking (select board member) Jeff Handler…everyone had a blast.

“This café is so much more than coffee and baked goods,” Grogan continued. “It’s about inclusion, happiness, a brighter future for our loved ones with special needs, and a place for everyone to call home. For many of us, we don’t realize how hard a typical day can be for some.”

There are many individuals who are struggling in a world that is too loud, too bright and overwhelming, yet still continue to shine each day, she said. They are the reason for the cafe. She called the special needs community a strong, determined, and fearless group of individuals.

“I am so honored to know that so many families have found their tribe with Special Friends Cafe,” Grogan said.